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Eat Pray Love

What it's about:

Liz Gilbert (Julia Roberts) realises that she's deeply unhappy in her marriage, and to some extent, her life. She divorces her husband and embarks on a journey of self discovery through Italy, where she learns to appreciate food; India, where she learns to acquire peace through prayer; and Bali, where she learns to love.

What we thought of it:

I have not read the book. I'm definitely one of those 'wait for the movie' types. So this is my first encounter with Liz Gilbert.

Before I delve into my many gripes with this story, it has to be acknowledged that it's the perfect one to have re-imagined into a film. The exotic locations, colourful landscapes and all that Italian food look great on camera! As a travel doccie, this scores a solid 8/10. Director Ryan Murphy should perhaps consider expanding his portfolio in this direction.

This film celebrates indulgence; from exotic travel to selfish acts. As Liz plods along her journey of self-discovery, she leaves many broken hearts and promises in her wake. Sure, it takes balls to admit something is wrong and actually take the action to correct it, but do we as a society really need another lesson in fixing ourselves when there are so many more important things in the world that need our attention?

Despite my distaste for the main character, Julia Roberts is luminescent in the role – literally. She's continually enveloped in a halo of light. But it doesn't necessarily give her this ethereal beauty. It's clear that Julia has moved into a new phase of her career. She looks and sounds older; giving her the authenticity she needs to pull off this flawed character.

The supporting cast is magnificent. James Franco is adorable as her toy-boy David, Richard Jenkins delivers an emotional and dramatic performance as Richard from Texas, and Javier Bardem as Felipe is the best father in the world! Liz Gilbert was incredibly lucky to come across such unbelievable people in her life, especially compared to her cookie-cutter ex-husband.

Of all Liz's experiences through three different countries, her toughest hardship was dealing with mosquitoes in India. Poor baby. I don't suppose Liz will ever take a holiday in Mozambique then.

It's a pretty amazing story resting on the laurels of truth. I'm not saying it's not the truth, it's just the travel agent's version of it.

Eat Pray Love is a beautiful exhibition of a romantic life, and if you're looking for some escapism, drink it right in. Just don't miss your appointment with your therapist thinking a R40 movie ticket will give you the answers or the courage you're looking for in your own life.

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